A RCPT member makes a military-style jump at Skydive Palatka. Photo by Dave Sirak.At Skydive Palatka in Florida in March, Round Canopy Parachute Team, a nonprofit military-static-line demonstration team, hosted its second More Than a Jump event for veterans. Veteran-focused clothing manufacturer Grunt Style partnered with RCPT to bring veterans to the event for military-style parachute jump training under SF10A steerable round canopies. Grunt Style also produced event T-shirts as a fundraiser.
At its first More Than a Jump event in October, RCPT drew more than 100 veteran jumpers, strap hangers (experienced jumpers) and instructors. The March event was much smaller due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but five veterans—all who had amputations—came out to make jumps. Despite the event’s smaller size, the team fulfilled its mission to give back to veterans and show them that the activity is more than just a jump … it’s a way to join a community and form lifelong bonds.
Jumpers can learn more about the Round Canopy Parachute Team and More Than a Jump events at rcptusa.org.
David Munoz | D-37695
Elkhorn, Nebraska